The Ethics of Occupation: Mencius on Virtue and Professional Choices

In his exploration of ethics and virtue, the ancient Chinese philosopher Mencius (孟子) offers profound insights into the nature of professional choices and the pursuit of virtue. Mencius famously remarked, “The maker of arrows is not as compassionate as the maker of armor. The arrow maker fears his arrows may not be lethal enough, while the armor maker worries that his armor may fail to protect. This principle extends to the difference between a doctor and a coffin maker. Therefore, choosing a profession must be done with careful consideration. Confucius said: ‘It is best to reside in a place with a virtuous atmosphere.’ Choosing to live in a place devoid of virtue, and yet claiming wisdom, is a fallacy. Virtue is the noblest status granted by Heaven and the most comfortable dwelling for humankind. To reject virtue when it is not obstructed is unwise. Those who lack virtue, intelligence, courtesy, and righteousness are fit only to be subservient to others. Feeling ashamed of being subservient is like feeling ashamed of being a bow maker or an arrow maker. If one truly feels shame, it should be for failing to practice virtue. A virtuous person is like an archer who first aligns his stance before shooting. If the target is missed, the fault lies with himself, not with those who shoot better.”

Mencius’s observations highlight a fundamental aspect of his ethical philosophy: the intrinsic relationship between professional duties and moral integrity. He uses the contrast between an arrow maker and an armor maker to illustrate a crucial point. While the arrow maker’s primary concern is to create effective weapons, which inherently could cause harm, the armor maker’s focus is on protection, ensuring safety and minimizing harm. This distinction underscores how different professions have different moral implications and responsibilities.

Mencius extends this comparison to other professions, such as doctors and coffin makers, emphasizing that the nature of one’s work can reflect one’s moral values. The doctor’s role is to heal and save lives, while the coffin maker’s work, though inevitable, deals with death. The juxtaposition serves to question the moral weight of one’s occupation and the underlying intentions driving these professions.

Further, Mencius incorporates a quotation from Confucius, “To reside in a place with a virtuous atmosphere is best,” stressing that virtue should be an essential criterion in choosing where to live and work. He argues that it is unwise to reject virtue when it is available. This belief highlights Mencius’s conviction that virtue is both the highest honor bestowed by the divine and the ideal state for human contentment.

The core of Mencius’s argument is that those who lack virtue and intelligence, who act without courtesy and righteousness, are suited only to be subservient. He criticizes the notion of feeling ashamed about one’s profession in a superficial manner, such as being embarrassed about being an archer or an armor maker. Instead, he contends that true shame should come from failing to practice virtue.

Mencius’s metaphor of the archer further illustrates his point. The archer must first ensure that his stance and form are correct before releasing the arrow. If the arrow misses the mark, the archer should reflect on his own technique rather than blaming external factors. This reflection aligns with Mencius’s belief that personal improvement and self-examination are crucial for achieving virtue. The focus should be on one’s own actions and intentions rather than external circumstances or comparisons with others.

In summary, Mencius’s teachings remind us that virtue and moral integrity should guide our professional choices and actions. His philosophy encourages us to seek virtue in every aspect of life, from the profession we choose to the environment we inhabit. Mencius’s emphasis on self-reflection and personal responsibility highlights the importance of aligning our actions with our moral values. Even in modern times, these principles are relevant, reminding us to uphold virtue in all areas of our lives and to constantly strive for self-improvement and ethical conduct.